Free Walking Tour Berlin

When: Every day 10am & 12pm every day
Where: The meeting point is in front of the ehemaliges Kaiserliches Postfuhramt Berlin, Oranienburger Straße, 10117 Berlin, Germany, next to the entrance.
Price: Free

What is the Abgeordnetenhaus (City parliament) of Berlin, Germany?

by | Mar 7, 2024 | Walking Tour

The Abgeordnetenhaus stands as Berlin’s local government parliament that serves Germany’s capital city. Full legislative powers of Berlin belong to this parliamentary body which serves to represent all Berlin residents. Abgeordnetenhaus carries its English equivalent meaning “House of Representatives.”

Structure and Function

Through elections Berlin citizens select representatives who become known as “abgeordneten” or delegates. Berlin residents exercise their voting privileges every five years to choose representatives who will serve as members of the city’s government. Each Berlin district population determines the total Abgeordnetenhaus assembly seats.

The main functions of the Abgeordnetenhaus include the following:

  • To establish legislative and regulatory measures which shape Berlin’s urban framework
  • The city budget preparation and financial monitoring operations fall under this authority
  • The representatives are responsible for supervising both government policies and the elected city administrators.
  • City representatives spent their time holding discussions about vital subjects which impact Berlin’s communities.
  • The Abgeordnetenhaus exists to defend and advance the wishes of all groups residing in Berlin

Political Parties and Coalitions

Similar to Germany’s national parliamentary setup multiple political factions serve as members in the Abgeordnetenhaus assembly. Political parties throughout Berlin share power by creating alliances which together reach a majority position to lead the government.

Some of the major political parties represented in the Abgeordnetenhaus include:

  • Christian Democratic Union (CDU)
  • Social Democratic Party (SPD)
  • Green Party (Bündnis 90/Die Grünen)
  • Left Party (Die Linke)
  • Alternative for Germany (AfD)

These parties advance policies and address critical topics while developing legislation that complies with their party expressed goals.

Example: Party Composition in the Abgeordnetenhaus

Let’s take a look at the party composition in the Abgeordnetenhaus after the most recent election:

Party        Number of Seats

CDU 30

SPD 34

Green Party 29

Left Party 27

AfD 22

Each party in this political framework lacks the robust enough voting power to exclusively command decision-making. To reach a majority and operate as government parties must unite into coalitions.

Influence and Decision-Making

Every decision originated by the Abgeordnetenhaus substantially affects the governance of Berlin’s metropolitan area. Through legislative acts the city’s parliament establishes guidelines for education and healthcare services and infrastructure development and transportation systems along with other municipal functions.

When making choices within the Abgeordnetenhaus delegates engage in dialogue which leads to voting as a decision-mechanism. Each delegate expresses their viewpoints so the body decides matters through voting rules determined by majorities.

Public Participation

Through your engagement as a citizen you can gain access to participate in Abgeordnetenhaus’s political procedures where you can express your opinions. Here are some ways you can get involved:

  • A democratic process exists for electing officials who will become your representatives.
  • The public can attend both hearings and committee meetings of your district.
  • Contact your lawmakers to share your opinions and concerns
  • Your participation includes joining political associations and working alongside community-based organizations.
  • Read updates about what people discuss in current politics along with ongoing debates.

Your participation directly helps to determine both Berlin’s policy frameworks and its future direction.

Conclusion

The Abgeordnetenhaus serves as Berlin’s fundamental governing body through which decisions related to city leadership achieve enactment. The government body stands between the people by advocating their rights as it passes current laws and monitors official activities. Sunlight into municipal governance through structural comprehension will enable active citizenship that drives both democratic execution and urban development.

Thank you for reading. If you're inspired by the stories of Berlin and want to delve deeper, why not join us on our Free Berlin Walking Tour? It's a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the city's rich history and vibrant culture. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

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WHAT TO EXPECT

  • 3.5 hours walking tour
  • Berlin’s major highlights
  • Brandenburg Gate
  • Reichstag and Berlin Wall
  • Historical sites

Free Walking Tour Berlin

When: Every day 10am & 12pm every day
Where: The meeting point is in front of the ehemaliges Kaiserliches Postfuhramt Berlin, Oranienburger Straße, 10117 Berlin, Germany, next to the entrance.
Price: Free